Kwame, my nine year old male Rottie was diagnosed with Bone cancer of the shoulder joint in Feb 2010. After the initial X-rays and bone biopsy was performed (which was inconclusive) I order the OST support, the Maritime Pine Bark and the Chemo Support (for later on).
I observed immediate improvements. His lameness disappeared, so thinking it was a result of the pain meds he was on, I stopped them so as to settle him down as I feared him causing damage to the affected joint. He continued to play with his 2 yo female rottie friend, Saniay, despite reports the the bone biposy is more painful than the cancer itself.
The Vet and I were so surprised by Kwame's improvement that we did another bone biopsy, which was again inconlusive. By this stage the lump had reduced in size, and 2 days after the 2nd bone biposy he was again playing as normal with no pain-meds. Watching Kwame and Saniay sprint around the yard and crash in to each other chest 1st was a sight to behold as Kwame had a 8 inch stitched wound on his shoulder!
I was then left with the difficult decision as to amputate his right front leg or not. The results for the inconclusive 2nd biopsy arrived on the morning he was due to have surgery. We came to the conclusion that if it wasn't a cancer, the other possibilties would include a type of bone fungal growth which would also require amputation. As you can see, Kwame had adapted well to life as a 'tri-paw'.
The results from the post-op biopsy did show it was bone cancer of the "typical" variety, meaning it hadn't spread to any ligaments or tissues.
Kwame has now completed Chemo and his blood and bone marrow test results continue to be in the normal range. Friends and family all comment on how well he looks, some even say he looks younger than before the amputation. It wasn't an easy path (post op gastro and then a wound infection requiring more surgery = 4 surgeries in 5 weeks) but he's come through with flying colours.
I've changed Kwame's diet to include more raw vegetables and fruits (carrot, brocolli, cauliflower, pumpkin, apple and banana) and continue to use additive-free meats and Dry Food (Eagle Pack). I also have added Essiac Formula, Salmon Oil, Spirulina, Astralagus and Echinacea and 3 mushroom extracts (Shiitake, Reishi and Maitake) to his diet as well. I continue to use the Osteosarcoma support program with the Maritime Pine Bark. I also use Protexin (animal flora for abdominal health). Get the 125/250/500g containers, its much cheaper than the individual packets.
I would like to caution other owners about the affects of non-steroidal pain killers on a dog's stomach post-op. Cancer also depletes the dog's stomach lining, so I would also recommend some post op and continuing support as well, which is why I use the Protexin. I didn't use the following but wish that I had.
Lastly, use a good quality water for your dog to drink. Avoid unfilterd tap water if possible, I now use Noble's Spring Water in a small bowl (given after exercise) and filtered tap water in their main water bowl. This is especially helpful if your animal has chemo treatment, in my opinion.
I would definitely recommend the products I obtained from here for any owners who are in a similar situation. My thanks to the staff for their helpful advice and prompt service.
Regards
Michael
